What are the best ways to maintain and update a UI prototype?

1 Use a prototyping tool

One of the easiest ways to maintain and update a UI prototype is to use a dedicated prototyping tool that allows you to create, edit, and share interactive mockups. Prototyping tools, such as Figma, Sketch, or Adobe XD, offer features such as drag-and-drop elements, reusable components, animations, transitions, and collaboration options. Using a prototyping tool can help you save time, avoid errors, and ensure consistency across your prototype.

2 Establish a version control system

Another way to maintain and update a UI prototype is to establish a version control system that tracks the changes and revisions made to your prototype. Version control systems, such as Git, can help you manage multiple versions of your prototype, compare and merge different files, and restore previous states if needed. Version control systems can also help you collaborate with other researchers or designers, as you can share and review each other's work.

3 Document your changes and feedback

A third way to maintain and update a UI prototype is to document your changes and feedback in a clear and organized way. Documentation can help you keep track of the rationale behind your design decisions, the results of your user testing sessions, and the suggestions or requests from your stakeholders. Documentation can also help you communicate your progress and challenges to your team and clients, and justify your design choices. You can use tools such as Google Docs, Notion, or Miro to create and store your documentation.

4 Test and iterate your prototype

A fourth way to maintain and update a UI prototype is to test and iterate your prototype regularly and frequently. Testing and iterating your prototype can help you validate your assumptions, identify problems, and improve your design solutions. Testing and iterating your prototype can also help you align your prototype with your research objectives and user needs, and avoid wasting time or resources on unnecessary features or changes. You can use tools such as UserTesting, Maze, or Lookback to conduct and analyze your user testing sessions.

5 Follow a naming convention

A fifth way to maintain and update a UI prototype is to follow a naming convention that helps you organize and label your files, folders, screens, and elements. A naming convention can help you find and access your files easily, avoid confusion or duplication, and maintain a consistent style and structure across your prototype. A naming convention can also help you collaborate with other researchers or designers, as you can share and understand each other's work. You can use tools such as Airtable, Trello, or Asana to manage your naming convention.

6 Review and refine your prototype

A sixth way to maintain and update a UI prototype is to review and refine your prototype periodically and before presenting it to your stakeholders. Reviewing and refining your prototype can help you check for errors, inconsistencies, or gaps in your design, and make adjustments or improvements as needed. Reviewing and refining your prototype can also help you polish your presentation and demonstrate your research outcomes and recommendations. You can use tools such as InVision, Framer, or Marvel to showcase your prototype.